A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 266

Guiding Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-2, ‘As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the Spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.’

 

 

🔴 New to You

written by: Torrie Slaughter

Bargain Hunt

I love thrift stores and shopping for ‘previously’ loved items. The word used takes on a different context when you think about the former owner. One may question how they handled the piece and how it served their purpose. If you dig deeper, you might wonder what type of adventures they had or memories created. That was very true of my experience when we downsized. 

Negotiations

After months of discussion, my husband and I decided it was time to sell my ‘mom’ van. I won’t bore you with all the details, so I’ll just tell you that it served its season and deserved to be used by a younger family who could make more memories. 

Previous Owner

Unlike the used car we subsequently purchased, God’s ownership of our souls isn’t something we have to wonder. We know His Divine condition will breathe holiness into our being. Everything about God’s intentions is good; He has our best interests in mind. Isn’t that awesome?! 

If we could get the CarFax on what God is giving us, I believe the report would say:

• No Accidents: In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, – Ephesians 1:11
• Milage (benefit): And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. – Ephesians 2:6-7
• Service Records: For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.- Ephesians 2:10
• Type of Owner: He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Ephesians 2:17-18

 

Considering the report of Christ and all the incredible benefits He gives, I am grateful no one has to wonder about His previous condition. If you are ready to trade in your old self and be made new in Christ, I pray you encounter Jesus. When you take Him for a ‘test drive‘ and honor His command to love, your new vehicle of thinking will be challenging to return. 

 

Prayer

Father, thank you for making us whole in you while we were slaves to sin. Thank you for providing an escape plan and making us members of your household even though we were still far off. As our Maker, we have the assurance that Your foundation is solid. We thank you for Your grace and mercy. Our value is increased because of You. Amen.

 

 

 

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Thursday, September 23, 2021

Isaiah 41:17-43:13, Ephesians 2:1-22, Psalm 67:1-7, Proverbs 23:29-35

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